The United States administration delivered conflicting messages about its objectives in the widening war with Iran, even as it urged American citizens to leave much of the Middle East. President Donald Trump said Washington aims to eliminate Iran's nuclear capabilities, destroy its missile forces and navy, and potentially bring about regime change following the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a strike.

Trump also raised the possibility of negotiations with successors to Iran's leadership. However, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President Vance each offered differing characterizations of the war's goals, adding to uncertainty over Washington's strategy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview with Fox News, dismissed suggestions that Washington was being pulled into the conflict. He said Trump believed direct action against Iran was necessary to counter the threat posed by its regime, as the fighting and diplomatic tensions continued to escalate.